Restaurant dining is a wonderful treat!

Instead of smoking up the kitchen or the outdoor barbecue, pay the money and take your choice. Long Island is a multi-varied constellation of restaurants, fast food, seafood and ethnic establishments.

You are paying for the service, the ambiance and the careful preparation of your food.

Just relax and enjoy your meal in leisure and peace.

Ay, there is the rub!

Last week I entered a Hamptons fish restaurant with my wife, my son, his wife and my two darling grandchildren (both below the age of four). We went early so as not to be too disruptive to other diners. The restaurant was nearly unoccupied and we were ushered to a corner table. It was ideal! The children in our party would not disturb anyone.

Wrong!

The unthinking and irresponsible maitre d' ushered the next group of four right next to our table. There were seats and tables everywhere and yet he sat them practically on top of us. Why? Where was his sense? What was his thought process? Did he not know that children need more space, to make more noise and to do whatever kids do at suppertime?

We felt ill at ease trying to restrain the children.

The other diners, close to us, kept smiling weakly, until they finally moved to the opposite wall of the restaurant.

A little forethought was called for, but was missing.

Actually I have been on both sides of this dilemma when entering a restaurant and being shown to a table, I ask for a deserted corner. If I see children, I try not to sit too close to them. It benefits both parties. Give the young parents more space while allowing my party to eat in a quiet atmosphere.

Each situation requires tact and consideration. A little thought goes a long way. Doing any task by rote will only result in unhappy consequences.

If you think I am being a curmudgeon, you can email me with your opinion at shgreenbug@aol.com.